NKorea: Kim Jong Un takes action on inaccurate weather forecasts

"Social Buzz": the number of times this article has been shared across major social media networks

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Pic: AP.

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Many people may grumble about inaccurate weather forecasts, but North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is doing something about it.

Kim is using his position atop the authoritarian country to warn forecasters against the “many incorrect mistakes” caused by old observation systems.

It remains to be seen whether Kim’s field guidance trip to the country’s weather service will lead to more accurate weather prediction. But it was a rare acknowledgment by proud but impoverished North Korea of its struggles with outdated technology.

It’s also a reflection of Kim’s stated objective of improving the economy and public livelihood. Another main objective is building more nuclear weapons.

State media reported the trip Tuesday.

Frequent natural disasters like droughts and flooding are believed to have worsened North Korea’s chronic food shortages.

Subscribe to Asian Correspondent

Receive our weekly round-up of the most important stories in Asia

We will never give away, trade or sell your email address. You can unsubscribe at any time.